Rumored Bucks Trade Made Official Amid NBA Free Agency

The Milwaukee Bucks have been no strangers to shakeups this NBA Free Agency. From parting ways with veteran talent to making room for younger options, it’s been clear that the franchise is preparing for a strategic reset. However, their latest trade might hit the locker room hardest.

On Sunday, the Bucks officially sent longtime small forward Pat Connaughton to the Charlotte Hornets, along with two second-round picks in 2031 and 2032, in exchange for Serbian guard Vasa Micic. 

The move signals the end of Connaughton's seven-season run with Milwaukee one filled with key playoff moments, locker room leadership.

Pat Connaughton (24) drives for the basket against Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton (0) in the NBA Playoffs

Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

Connaughton, who averaged 5.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.7 assists while shooting nearly 47% from the field in the 2024–25 season, brought consistency and hustle in a supporting role. 

"We have acquired guard Pat Connaughton and two second-round draft picks from the Milwaukee Bucks for guard Vasa Micic," Hornets official X handle wrote.

His career totals span 595 games with the Portland Trail Blazers and the Bucks. For a team like Charlotte, which finished 14th in the Eastern Conference with a 19-63 record, Connaughton brings experience and veteran presence. 

From Milwaukee’s end, the trade feels more like a sacrifice than an upgrade. Micic, while serviceable averaging 6.6 points and 3.1 assists last season with the Hornets and Suns doesn’t quite fill the intangible void Connaughton leaves behind. With only one playoff series win since 2021, this loss could sting more than stats show.

As the Bucks continue to retool their roster, Connaughton’s departure marks a symbolic close to a vital chapter in Milwaukee’s recent success.